The 1960’s brought the design of the legendary snowmobiles including the Polaris Comet, Super Pacer, and Mustag. These machines were designed for extreme speed and with competition in mind.
“A bird does not sing because it has an answer. It sings because it has a song. ” Chinese Proverb
January 23, 2024
Winter in Roseau brings about a unique and serene experience for birdwatchers.
As the landscape transforms into a winter wonderland, it becomes a haven for various bird species that thrive in colder months. If you can take the cold, there is no better time to see birds than in the winter when the trees have lost their leaves and there is less to hide in. Grab your binoculars, bundle up, and let’s explore the enchanting world of winter bird watching in Northwestern Minnesota.
Top Places to Winter Bird Watch in Roseau, County
Hayes Lake State Park
Ditch Banks and fields on Hwy 89 and County Roads near farm fields
Pine to Prarie Trail
5 Commonly Seen Winter Birds in Roseau County
Common Redpoll (Acanthis flammea) or Winter Finches
One of the highlights of winter bird watching in this region is the appearance of the Common Redpoll. These small finches, adorned with a crimson cap on their heads, create a vibrant contrast against the snow-covered backdrop. Look for them in coniferous forests and open fields like the Beltrami State Forest area and open farm fields, where they often gather in flocks adding a burst of color. Other finches that are common in Roseau are the yellow finch which frequents the bird feeders. A common redpoll eats up to 42% of its body mass every day. They harvest seeds from birch, alder, willow, and pine trees but appreciate an easy meal at a feeder.
Snowy Owl (Babo Scandiacous):
A true symbol of a cold winter region, the Snowy Owl is a majestic bird that occasionally graces Roseau County in the winter months. Their snow-white plumage blends seamlessly into the winter surroundings. Seeing this beauty is a sight to behold. Keep your eyes open when passing open fields and farmland. They often sit on a light poll or high in a tree hunting prey. Last winter, passing traffic was lucky to see the same owl perched on a light pole on Hwy 11 east of Roseau. It was as if it had scheduled arrivals, he came nightly between 4:30-6:00 PM. His view was a stunning sunset to the west and fine dining to the east across the snow-covered field.
Blue Jays and Pileated Woodpeckers
Blue Jays and Woodpeckers add a brightness of color to the white winter landscapes of Minnesota. The coldest of days seem to be no bother for these birds that can often be seen dining at a suet feeder on the frostiest bitter cold days. The pileated woodpecker is the largest living woodpecker in North America. It is nearly three times taller than the petite Downy Woodpecker. What’s neat about the Blue Jay is the population shift in preparation for the winter cold. The birds you see in the winter may not have been the ones present in the summer months. Some of these Jays will be travelers from northern territories and some of the summer Blue Jays will move a bit south.
Our residents are lucky to have a local professional photographer with a passion for photographing this majestic bird. Heather Morey has shared images that help us understand the bird and bring it up close for rarely-seen viewing.
Black-capped Chickadee (Poecile atricapillus)
The resilient Black-capped chickadee is a year-round resident of Roseau County, bringing cheer to birdwatchers even in the coldest months. Recognized by its distinctive black cap, this bird makes a sweet song that sounds like it’s saying its name chick-a-dee -dee-dee. These small birds are a delight to watch flitting around in search of seeds or insects during the summer months. If you have a wooded area with a bird feeder, it is easy to attract these lively characters for your viewing pleasure.
Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus)
Northern Minnesota’s frozen farm fields, lakes, and rivers become prime hunting grounds for the Majestic Bald Eagle during winter. As opportunistic scavengers, Bald Eagles soar through the skies scanning for small prey like rabbits and mice. Often a group of eagles, known as a convocation, can be spotted along the ditch banks dining on frozen road kill like deer. Eagle’s nests can be seen from the rural roads, where their carefully constructed homes stand out from the rare leaved trees. These nests can measure 5-6 feet wide and 2-4 feet deep. Witnessing the impressive wingspan of these iconic birds against a wintry backdrop is a breathtaking experience that epitomizes the beauty of winter bird watching.
Minnesota Bird Fun Fact for the Birdwatcher
The yellow finch that lives in Minnesota year-round can often be missed in winter months. The male bird who is yellow molts its feathers in the winter for better camouflage making it resemble a close likeness to the more drab female bird. Making many birdwatchers think the yellow finch is missing in action.
And when we are discussing winter birds, we cannot leave out the partridge in the pear tree. It’s more like an apple or juneberry tree but they are a fun winter sight.
Friday, January 19 – Sunday, January 21, the 61st Derbyis on!
In honor of the 70th Polaris Anniversary being held August 16-18, 2024. We would like to highlight some of the World Champions who live or have lived in Roseau County or were driving the Polaris snowmobile to win the prestigious race.
The1977 World Championship start of the race at Eagle River, Wisconsin. The top ten finalists for the world championship event included
Polaris Race Team members (on the right), Jerry Bunke, Brad Hulings, and Steve Thorsen.
The World Championship Derby Complex in Eagle River Wisconsin, considered “The Snowmobile Capital of the World”, hosts oval, snocross, and vintage racing. The World Championship Snowmobile Derby is not only the largest and most prestigious snowmobile competition in the sport, it is one of the highest-ranking winter sports events in the Midwest and is recognized around the world.
“Eagle River” is known as the Indianapolis 500 of snowmobile racing. The Derby attracts more than 40,000 spectators annually. Fans travel from all over the United States, Canada and beyond to watch more than 500 international drivers race their high-tech snowmobiles at speeds of more than 100 miles per hour on a solid ice oval track. For over 50 years, the race has been held on a fully contained, half-mile banked oval track located in the heart of one of Wisconsin’s most popular resort areas., Eagle River.
The Polaris snowmobile and Roseau County residents hold claim to many Eagle River Derby World Champions!
1964 winner of the “World’s First Snowmobile Derby, Stan Hayes
15-year-old Stanley Hayes was driving an experimental Sno-Traveler from Polaris Industries.
The next eight years would be run by a variety of other snowmobile brands, including Evinrude, Ski-Doo, Arctic Cat and Yamaha
Polaris Race Team legend Bob Eastman of Roseau, MN is the 1973 Eagle River World Champion!
A lack of snow failed to ruin the 1973 championship derby on Sunday, January 21.
Eastman drove his sled to victory lane not on ice or snow, but on a sawdust race track!
A fan favorite, Eastman’s trophy presentation in Victory Lane was received with thunderous applauding from the crowd!
The top ten qualifying drivers for the finals in the 1975 World Championship
Back row, left to right, Gordon Rudolph, Sam Sessions, Ed Schubitzke, Stan Hayes, Larry Coltom, Front row: left to right: Jim Adema, Don Omdahl, Giles Vileneuve, Larry Rugland, and Jim Bernat.
1975 World Champion
Jim Bernat
Bernat, living in Roseau, MN since the early 1960s, known as “Smiling Jim”, was a Polaris Race Team member since 1968.
Jim took home the world championship trophy on a Polaris 650 factory race sled.
1977 and 1978 Champion
Steve Thorsen
Polaris Race Team driver, Steve Thorsen from Fergus Falls, MN was the second driver to win back-to-back championships.
Fun fact: 1977 was the first year of the Polaris IFS rather than the leafer suspension.
1990 World Champion
Dave Wahl from Greenbush, Minnesota driving a Ski-Doo , wearing Bib #74,
Dave and his brother Durmont established Wahl Brothers Racing in 1981, after the closing of Arctic Cat and the break-up of Team Arctic. Their shop was located in Thief River Falls, MN. The team switched to racing a Ski-Doo twin track in 1987.
1996 and 1997 World Champion
Dave Wahl
Dave Wahl, Greenbush, Minnesota driving a Ski-Doo to victory
In 1985 Wahl Brothers Racing relocated their business to their hometown of Greenbush, MN.
1998 World Champion
Terry Wahl
A resident of Greenbush, MN, Terry won his championship title on a Skidoo Champ 440 sled.
Terry is the nephew of Dave Wahl and son of Durmont Wahl. Terry joined Wahl Bros. Racing in 1993 as a team member.
Since 1998 Wahl Bros. have been racing for Team Polaris. “It has been an exciting change that has produced a World Championship Title in the Mod 500 Class, among other prestigious victories in oval races on Polaris race sleds.”
2010World Champion
Matt Schulz, Wausau, Wisconsin
Matt was the first Polaris driver to win the Championship since Steve Thorsen in 1978.
2012 World Champion
Nick Van Strydonk, Tomahawk, Wisconsin driving a Polariswith an engine built by former Polaris racer Larry Rugland.
Nickwas just 21 years old.
2017 World Champion
Bib # 13 Nick Van Strydonk, Tomahawk, Wisconsin driving a Polaris, won the 30-lap featureby almost
leading from start-to-finish!
2018 World Champion, 2019 World Champion, 2020 World Champion, 2021 World Champion
Photo taken in 2021
Blaine Stephenson!
Blaine Stephenson from St. Cloud, Minnesota takes homeFOUR championship titles on a Polaris race sled back-to-back-to-back-to-back!
Blaine is a professional ice oval snowmobile race driver for Wahl Bros. Racing, Greenbush, Minnesota and Polaris Racing.
The 2022 World Champion
Jay Mittelstaedt, La Valle, Wisconsin Driving a Polaris
Fun Fact: Jay met his now wife Paige Decker at the Eagle River Race Track, which was previously owned by her extended family, so they decided to have their wedding at the facilities.
Eagle River is set to thrill with the 61st World Championship Snowmobile Derby
See you at the races
Researched by Carmen Przekwas, References: Roseau County Historical Society, Warriors of Winter, The Legend of Polaris, Mike Hetteen, Polaris Post Company newsletters, Starfire Kids, Snow Goer, Wahl Bros. Racing, World Championship Derby Complex, Photos: Randy Larson, Karolyn and Bob Eastman Collection All Rights Reserved
Polaris How it all began-the story of how three men in a shop laid the foundationfor a fortune 500 company in Roseau, MN. From Snowmobiles, ATV, Boats and watercraft Polaris has built it all.
As the snowmobile racing season is about to start, we would like to look back at Polaris and the first official race driver. This year also marks Polaris’s’ 70th Anniversary and we plan to dig deep into the history showing you a collection of photos and memorabilia that has not been seen before. Let’s start by telling a little story about a Polaris legend!
DAVID JOHNSON
CO_FOUNDER of POLARIS
Did you know David Johnson, one of the founders of Polaris Industries, was the first official Polaris race driver?
1956 Polaris Sno-Traveler with David Johnson
1958 photo includes (left to right): David Johnson, Art Lisell, Mitchell Johnson, Steve Rugland
Note the all-aluminum Sno-Traveler Steve is standing by: was one of the first sleds made from aluminum patterned after the trailblazer’s nose (on left) only bigger.
In 1958 David Johnson, with a contingent of drivers from Polaris met up with the Harry C. Paul’s group from Winnipeg, Manitoba. Harry was a promoter and owner of the Autoboggan. The engine is inside the rear track unit, pushing forward as shown with the toboggan in the front with Mr. Paul steering.
Harry Paul’s 1958 Autoboggan.
The group set out to demonstrate the usefulness and design of the Sno-Traveler and Autoboggan. They chose to attend The annual Pas, Manitoba Fur Festival, a wintertime gathering with large crowds celebrating the bountiful harvest of fur pelts while having fun in the snow. There were a variety of contests, including dog sled racing.
The two parties participated in driving around the lake to prove the snowmobiles would work better than the dog sled teams. A tactic to draw more attention to the snow machines was to have the first “snowmobile race” to make them look more exciting. As David was quoted in Bill Vint’s “Warriors of the Winter”, “We tried to rig them a little bit so we had a zig-zag effect,” he confessed. “One guy ahead, and then the other, and so on. At a terrific speed of about 20 miles per hour!”
David Johnson is doing some zigging and zagging on a 1957 Polaris Sno-Traveler!
Much to the dismay of H.C. Paul, the Autoboggan broke down during the race expedition on the lake. David hooked up some straps and pulled Paul’s machine in with his Polaris Sno-Traveler.
Harry Paul
Instead of going a shorter distance to Harry Paul’s truck, David decided to tour The Pas by driving through the town’s main street. Yet another opportunity for Johnson’s to promote Polaris’ brand as being trustworthy and reliable.
Because of that particular weekend, Harry later had a meeting with David Johnson, Allan, and Edgar Hetteen to form an agreement.
Polaris would build the snow machines, Harry Paul would become a distributor with the stipulation the Canadian-sold sleds name remain Autobaggon. The Autoboggans were built for Harry C. Paul, Ltd., Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada to market in Canada by Polaris Industries of Roseau, MN from 1958 through 1966.
In 1959, Johnson led another expedition into northern Manitoba and the Polaris group had plans made for some genuine snowmobile contests. A circular course was marked out with stakes in the snow on Grace Lake. The distance was about 400 yards. Three races were held, it was informal but marked the start of organized snowmobile racing and David Johnson won the race again!
In 1960 the Trapper’s Festival added cross-country snowmobile races to the festivities. Again, David Johnson on the Sno-Traveler was the winner. According to Harry Paul, “No one could beat David. In the cross-country, David would take off right through the small trees!”His sturdy machine blazing his trail. Everyone else was afraid to try it and dodged around the trees. David believed in the power of his machine. “David always won!” reported Harry Paul.
Snowmobile racing had begun thanks to Polaris’ first official snowmobile race driver DAVID JOHNSON!
Autoboggans were similar to Polaris machines but were painted Harvest Gold versus the bright red of early Polaris models. This particular model is a K95C with a 9.5hp Kohler motor.
David was a soft-spoken man, humble and generous. Johnson would remain a regular at the plant his entire life, visiting over coffee. When David walked into the engineering department, “the shop”time was given to talk with him about production and the latest in engineering. The coffee talk was sharing tales and asking for advice. When asked why they designed the sno- traveler, David would laugh and say.
We were pretty much outdoors people, and we did quite a bit of hunting in the Northwest Angle for all kinds of game. We had a lot of snow in some of those winters, so you had to go on snowshoes or walk or whatever. So, I used to tell people that we were lazy, we didn’t want to walk, so we thought of something to ride.” David Johnson told Snow Goer.com on October 9, 2013
It is hard to describe the effect David Johnson had on the industry since he helped build the first Polaris Sno-Cat in 1956. These pioneers left behind a great heritage. David lived in Roseau, the birthplace of Polaris until he died in 2016 at 93. His legacy and beliefs are woven into the small community. You can see many Polaris products at the Polaris Experience Center, in Roseau. Admission is always free. You can also arrange a tour of the manufacturing plant. If you like vintage, consider attending the David Johnson Sno-Cat Spectacular held in December. You won’t just find Polaris there. Take in shop-built, unconventional, and some classics. It’s a day to celebrate the engineering and mastery of putting snow skis and a motor together. Next time your skis hit the snow, think of the ones that rode the trails before you and those visions that are still being designed by people like David Johnson.
In the next article, we will be re-introducing some of the residents of Roseau County and Polaris employees who helped bring the Polaris snowmobiles to the forefront in racing!
You are invited to attend the 70th Polaris Anniversary Celebration on August 16-18, 2024. Book your lodging now.
Historical Content: Carmen Przekwas, Mike and Donovan Hetteen, Roseau Electric Volts and Views, Roseau Times Region and the Roseau County Museum Archives.
A Gnome’s Magical Christmas Adventure: Lights of Yesteryear
‘Tis the season when the temperature is crisp, and the scent of evergreen and Christmas cookies wafts through the air. My name is Roman the Gnome, and I’m about to embark on an adventure in Roseau, MN. Today, I woke with a need to explore and a heart full of curiosity. While having coffee at Nelson’s Cafe, I overheard a gentleman talking about an old village that transforms into a winter wonderland every Christmas. He spoke of sparkling lights, nostalgic decorations, and a timeless charm that could warm the coldest hearts.
Arriving at the village, I was greeted by the soft crunch of snow beneath my gnome-sized boots and the faint jingle of sleigh bells in the distance. The narrow boardwalks were lined with rustic cottages, their roofs adorned with a thick layer of glistening snow. My excitement grew as I turned the corner and was met with a breathtaking sight – the entire village shining with a mesmerizing display of Christmas lights.
The buildings were adorned with strings of twinkling fairy lights that danced merrily in the chilly night breeze. Each storefront boasted a unique decorations display, ranging from classic wreaths to intricately crafted wooden ornaments. The warm golden glow spilled from windows, inviting passersby to peek inside and catch a glimpse of the festive interiors.
One particular building caught my eye – a quaint city hall with a chimney puffing gentle plumes of smoke. Its windows were framed with candles, casting a soft, flickering light that added to the enchantment of the scene. Giant Christmas bulbs and multi-colored lit greenery invited me in. I particularly liked the decorations – snow-covered pinecones and tiny, hand-painted figurines depicting scenes of joy and merriment. The table was set for guests with trays of cookies and steaming hot cocoa. I was surprised to see a round fellow dressed in a red suit similar to my attire. When he laughed, his belly shook like a bowl full of jello. Small children were laughing and whispering in his ear. It seemed a jolly celebration.
The village square served as the center of the festive magic. A towering Christmas tree made from a windmill stood proudly in the center. The air was filled with the sweet melody of carolers singing timeless tunes, their voices harmonizing with the soft rustle of evergreen branches and the creaking of the windmill as they whirled in the wind. The Christmas lights sparkled in a dazzling array of colors, casting a warm and inviting glow on the snow.
I couldn’t resist joining the festivities. As I explored the village, I encountered friendly townsfolk dressed in cozy winter attire, their rosy cheeks aglow with the spirit of Christmas. Children laughed and played in the snow, ice skating, building snowmen, and engaging in spirited snowball fights. The aroma of an outside fire and hot cocoa wafted through the air, adding to the enchantment. I jumped on the hay wagon and rode through the village past Candy Cane Lane, the barn with baby Jesus, and the outdoor ice skating rink. This was pure holiday magic.
As the night unfolded, I was captivated by the simplicity and timelessness of the village’s Christmas celebration.
With a heart full of gratitude and cherished memories, I bid farewell to the old village, knowing its timeless charm would stay with me forever. As I disappeared into the wintry night, I couldn’t help but carry a piece of that magical Christmas spirit with me, eager to share the tale of my whimsical adventure with gnomes far and wide.
Nights of Lights is a free event open to all. Please plan to attend and join us in celebrating the most wonderful time of the year. For lodging, visit our website at https://goroseau.com/lodging/. Don’t forget your ice skates!
Allen Hetteen was one of the three founders of Polaris in 1954. He served as the president, worked on development, and was hands-on on all the fronts. He turned wrenches and handled business decisions. On June 1, 1970, Allan Hetteen retired from Polaris Industries. He then started a Polaris Snowmobile Distribution company, Rosco, Inc. This story tells the beginning of that journey.
1970-1972 Rosco Race Team
Allan always felt a race program would advance the development of the snowmobile, which in turn would help increase sales of the product. He passionately believed his new company, Rosco, Inc., would also benefit from a racing team. Thus, the Rosco Race Team was formed.
The team would support the dealers and their customers, being visible to the public, answering concerns, and helping the other race drivers when needed for support with parts and mechanical assistance. Allan expected the drivers to be gracious, helpful, and good sportsmen, treating others as part of the team. His opinion was to create a positive image, which would help sell the products supplied by Rosco, Inc., but most importantly, present a positive picture of the recreational winter sport of snowmobiling. The team participated in races in the upper north half of Minnesota, North Dakota, and South Dakota.
Rosco Racing Badge 1970
Officer Dale Amundson; General Manager Gene Fichter; Mechanics and Race Team Drivers. Allan Hetteen, on the far right, in the back row, shaking Race Manager Wayne Burkel’s hand.
He was pleased with the success of the team’s winning seasons. Allan felt every employee was an essential asset to a successful company. He was thoughtful in recognizing the staff and team for the efforts each of them contributed to Rosco, Inc., A Polaris Distributor. He would visit the Race Garage regularly. He was checking on the sled items needed and asking the drivers how the machines performed and what ideas for more speed and performance were required.
Left to right: Wayne Burkel, Team Manager, Bob Przekwas, Duane Opdahl, Ed Mansueto. Sitting on the sled: Roger Helgeson, Tony Burkel
At the end of the 1973 season, Rosco Incorporated would no longer be a distributor. The large sponsored Rosco Race Team of 1971 & 1972 ended. Although he no longer had his “own” race team, Allan still felt racing was important. He continued to sponsor racing for the 1973 season as a Polaris distributor, establishing a “Racing for Gold” incentive program for independent and dealer-sponsored race drivers.
On March 15, 1973, Rosco, Inc. was sold to Polaris Industries, A Textron Company.
Save the date to attend the 70th Celebration in Roseau. We will honor the heritage and look at the future of the company.
Hotels are limited. Click here to view lodging options.
Christmas is approaching, and with it comes one of my favorite traditions: baking day with the family.
As a little girl, I eagerly awaited the moment when the enchanting aroma of Christmas sweets would waft from Grandma’s kitchen. I loved the warmth of the kitchen, the festive decorations, and the laughter that echoed off the walls as we baked together. The scent of cinnamon and sugar filled you with warmth and excitement. Nothing was better than gathering with the family for an old-fashioned holiday baking day. The room’s laughter and the oven’s warmth made everything so cozy on a cold Minnesota day.
Granny Ava always bustled about, humming a festive tune as she measured ingredients and prepared the dough for their famous Christmas cookies. The first batch was always rolled out and cut with a drinking glass. The way her granny did when she was a child. Then, we were able to create and cut our trees and snowflakes. We each made and reserved our own sugar cookies to decorate and eat. The kitchen was a symphony of colors, with sprinkles, frosting, and an assortment of bright and festive candies waiting to adorn the sweet treats they would create. Granny Ava taught us the secrets of the perfect cookie dough, the art of rolling it out just right, and the joy of cutting out festive shapes with cookie cutters. As we worked, Granny Delilah shared stories of Christmases past, filling the kitchen with tales of happiness, wonder, and timeless traditions.
Time disappeared as my cousins and I laughed, shared memories, and created sugary masterpieces. Soon, the kitchen was filled with trays of cookies, each a work of art adorned with colorful icing and sparkling sugar. The sweet aroma of freshly baked treats filled the air, wrapping us in a comforting hug of holiday cheer. Little did we know we were baking up a timeless tradition of sweet memories
Today I share this tradition with my daughter and mother. Grandma Ava is with us in memory. Please enjoy our family Sugar Cookie Recipe perfected over generations.
Grandma Ava’s Sugar Cookies
4 Cups All Purpose Flour
¾ teaspoon of Salt
¾ teaspoon Baking Powder
1 Cup (2sticks) Butter
1 Cup Sugar
2 Large Eggs
2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius.
Mix the flour, baking powder, and baking soda in a bowl; set the mixture aside.
Cream the butter and sugar.
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
Once combined, slowly blend in the dry ingredients until evenly mixed.
Separate dough into tablespoon-sized balls.
Place onto an ungreased cookie sheet.
Place on the center rack and bake for 5 to 7 minutes (or until golden brown). Let the cookies sit on wire racks for 2 minutes before cooling.
“A Man of Vision, Inventor, Innovator, Visionary, Risk Taker, Competitive, Rugged, Executive, and a Gentleman.”
11/20/2023
In 1945, David Johnson and Edgar Hetteen created Hetteen Hoist and Derrick. The business started assembling—hoists and derricks to place utility poles in the ground. Electricity was coming to town, and they were here to help. Soon, other products, such as straw choppers, steel boat trailers, and field sprayers, were designed and produced at the company.
Allan joined the Hetteen Hoist and Derrick Company after graduating from Roseau High School, in 1948. Allan became a partner in the business, adding car salvage and car repair to the services. Allan was known for his knowledge, mechanical talents, building, and welding skills.
Picture: Allan Hetteen Roseau Class of 1948
The work of these three men, Allan Hetteen, David Johnson, and Edgar Hetteen, has significantly impacted the snowmobile industry, changing how Americans, Canadians, and others worldwide see the challenges and opportunities of winter.
Picture: David Johnson, Edgar and Allan Hetteen, the future founders of Polaris
Countless hours were spent repairing, creating, and fixing a wide array of products in this building. The shop was located where the current Roseau Liquor Store is at the intersection of Highway 11 and Highway 89 in the heart of Roseau.
Picture: Allen working on a Crankshaft
In 1954, Hetteen Hoist and Derrick changed the company’s name to Polaris Industries. At about this time, the three men began developing a snow machine. They were looking for a way to bring supplies to camp on the Norwest Angle, the northmost point of Minnesota. The three men worked together to engineer their first machine. Polaris Industries continued to develop the snow machine to the point where snowmobiles were being sold around the country, indeed the world.
In 1960, Allan Hetteen, age 31, succeeded his brother Edgar as President of Polaris Industries.
Picture: President Allan Hetteen standing by Polaris“#2” in 1969. This machine was built in February 1956 by David Johnson and Allan.
While there was some doubt Allan was too young to manage the job, Allan proved to be the right man for the times. He read everything he could about business techniques and how to manage, market, and promote a business and its product. He recognized what he did not know and would find others that did. As the success of the Sno-Traveler continued, Polaris outgrew its’ original manufacturing building. More production space was needed. It was clear that Polaris had a future in the snowmobile industry.
In October 1962, the ground was broken for a new Polaris Industries plant and offices on Highway #89 South in Roseau, MN. This enabled Polaris to manufacture a more complete line of snowmobiles and accessories at much higher input. Although other people developed versions of snowmobiles before Polarisdid, the northern Minnesota company was the first to realize the big consumer market for the machines.
Allen was a pioneer in the snowmobile industry. In addition to being President of Polaris Industries, Allan was also the Manager/Director of Engineering, Research, and Development, participating in many test and research trips. As the demand for the Sno-Traveler increased, more testing, development, and research were needed. Test trips would prove to be the most beneficial in evaluating the product. Allan was the lead test driver on many testing expeditions. One such trip was written about in the Merrill, a newspaper in Greenville.
The newspaper clipping with this photo states, “Allan Hetteen, president of the Minnesota manufacturing firm that built these two power sleds, checks lashings on a truck that carried them today to Greenville from Yarmouth. The sleds and two others were to leave today from Greenville for a weeklong trek over the Moosehead Lake region, then on through the Allagash section to Patten. The vehicles are powered by a gasoline, two-cycled 13 h.p. motor that drives a tracked belt. Skis support the sled. Hetteen plans to demonstrate the craft’s usefulness in snow country. The trip is not a part of the motorcade that left Maine today for Canada.” (By Staff Photographer Merrill)
Allan Hetteen died in November 1973 from a tragic farm accident. It was a life and legacy that ended too soon. His son, Mike, of Roseau, relived a bit of Polaris history when he visited the glacier site where his dad, David Pearson, and Harold Johnson had tested those Comet snowmobiles 60-plus years earlier. It was his chance to reconnect with his dad’s work and remember the heritage his dad left behind.
History and photos were provided by Carmen and Bob Przekwas, with special help from Mike Hetteen. Photos are copyrighted.
Celebrate Polaris’s 70th Anniversary in Roseau on August 16 -18, 2024. You will see everything from Meet and Greets with the original race team to the current stunt riders. Displays will feature over 70 years of product development and much more. Live music, kids activities, Polaris rides, and tours will keep you entertained. Hotels are limited, so book today.
